DMK prioritizes politics over children's future: BJP

Chennai

Tamil Nadu BJP chief K. Annamalai criticized the ruling DMK on Tuesday, accusing the party of prioritizing politics over children's education. His remarks came amid an escalating debate over the National Education Policy (NEP).

DMK deputy general secretary Kanimozhi challenged Annamalai, stating that if he truly cared about Tamil Nadu's students, he should ensure the Centre releases ₹2,152 crore in withheld Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) funds. She accused the BJP of manipulating data and imposing Hindi while depriving students of global language options like German in Kendriya Vidyalayas.

Kanimozhi defended Tamil Nadu’s education policies, citing schemes like Illam Thedi Kalvi, Ennum Ezhuthum, and the school breakfast program, which were praised in the 2025 Economic Survey. She also questioned the lack of Tamil teachers in many Kendriya Vidyalayas in the state.

Annamalai responded, accusing the DMK of ignoring declining education standards and using misleading claims. He argued that DMK’s flagship education schemes were already part of NEP 2020. He further questioned why the DMK government initially committed to implementing PM Shri but later avoided discussing it.

He also criticized the state for denying government school students the option to learn a third language, which is available in CBSE and matriculation schools, including those run by the DMK family. He accused the ruling party of hypocrisy and prioritizing politics over real education reforms.